Top Parking Spots: Finding the Best Place Where to Park for Catbells

Catbells is one of the most popular and scenic walks in the Lake District. With breathtaking outlooks, peaceful paths, and friendly climbs suitable for most ages, it’s no wonder visitors ask one big question: Where to park for Catbells?

Whether you drive a car, come in a camper, or even use one of our motorhomes for hire, knowing that the best parking spaces can make or break the day. This Jepson’s Holidays blog will guide you to park your Catbell and provide some useful tips.

Why Visit Catbells?

Before diving into parking, let’s quickly talk about why Catbells are so special.

Catbells stands proudly above Derwentwater, offering hikers panoramic views across Keswick, Borrowdale, and the surrounding fells. Though not the tallest hill (standing at 451 m), it’s one of the most rewarding for its effort.

Families, solo hikers, and even people traveling in luxury holiday homes UK love this trail for its charm, easy-to-follow paths, and the way it welcomes all skill levels. The Catbells route is short but sweet, which is ideal for a half-day adventure.

Best Starting Points for the Catbells Route

Most walkers start from the Hawes End area, which is close to the base of the fell. There are a few options for where to begin, but the starting point depends on where to park for Catbells.

Here’s a look at the top parking spots for Catbells.

1. Hawes End Parking

Location: Near the Hawes End Outdoor Centre

This is the most popular and closest parking spot to the main trail up Catbells. From here, it’s only a short walk to the start of the climb.

Pros:

• Very close to the trailhead
• Quickest access to the ridge
• Ideal for early morning hikers

Cons:

• Fills up very quickly (especially on weekends and holidays)
• Not suitable for large vehicles or motorhome hire options

Tip: Arrive before 9 AM to secure a spot.

2. Gutherscale Car Park

Location: Just a bit further north of Hawes End

This small pull-in has limited spaces but offers a scenic and quiet spot to begin your walk.

Pros:

• Peaceful and less busy
• Close to the trail
• Free parking

Cons:

• Very limited spots
• Not suitable for long vehicles or campervans

Good for: Solo hikers and couples arriving early

3. Nichol End Marine Parking

Location: Near Derwentwater’s western shore

This is a paid parking area near a café and boat launch.

Pros:

• Good facilities nearby
• Accessible to the lake
• A bit more space for motorhome hire vehicles 

Cons:

• Slightly longer walk to Catbells
• Paid parking

Tip: Combine a walk with a lakeside lunch!

4. Keswick Parking + Launch

Location: Keswick town center or lakeside

If you want a unique experience, park in Keswick and take a Derwentwater launch (boat) to Hawes End jetty.

Pros:

• A scenic boat ride to the trail
• More available parking in Keswick
• Great for day-trippers or tourists in luxury holiday homes UK

Cons:

• Requires planning (boat schedule and tickets)
• Slightly more time-consuming

Tip: Perfect for families or first-timers wanting a full Lake District experience.

5. Portinscale Village Parking

Location: 1.5 miles northwest of Catbells

This lovely village has some free and informal roadside parking. You’ll walk a bit to reach Catbells, but the stroll through the village and surrounding meadows is lovely.

Pros:

• Quiet start to your hike
• Away from the crowds
• Can support some larger vehicles

Cons:

• Longer walk to Catbells (around 30–40 minutes)
• No official car park

Tip: Great option if you’re staying nearby in motorhomes for hire or looking for less tourist-heavy areas.

6. Parking in Grange-in-Borrowdale

Location: South of Catbells

There are a couple of small car parks in Grange, which give access to an alternative Catbells route from the south.

Pros:

• Unique, less-traveled path
• Peaceful surroundings
• Nearby tea rooms and riverside walks

Cons:

• Longer and more challenging route
• Not as direct as Hawes End

Good for: More adventurous walkers or repeat visitors

7. Parking for Motorhomes and Campervans

If you’re visiting in a motorhome hire, finding safe, accessible, and legal parking is very important.

Top Tips:

• Keswick Rugby Club Car Park sometimes allows overnight and larger vehicle parking.
• Lakeside Keswick and Braithwaite Institute have options for day parking with more space.
• Avoid narrow lanes near Hawes End with large vehicles—turning and passing can be tricky.

For peace of mind, stay in a nearby campsite or luxury holiday homes UK, like the ones offered by Jepson’s Holidays, and drive a smaller vehicle to the trailhead.

Planning Ahead: Extra Tips for Parking and Hiking Catbells

• Get there early

Most parking spots fill up by mid-morning, especially in summer or on sunny weekends.

• Use the bus or the boat

The Keswick Launch and Borrowdale Bus offer eco-friendly, car-free options to reach Catbells.

• Pack for all weather

The weather in the Lake District can change quickly. Bring waterproofs, water, snacks, and sturdy shoes.

• Respect nature and locals

Avoid blocking driveways or parking on narrow lanes. Leave no trace.

Why Jepsons Holidays is Perfect for Catbells Walkers

If you’re coming to Catbells and staying in the area, consider booking through Jepson’s Holidays. Whether you want to hire a luxury motorhome or relax in one of our luxury holiday homes UK, you’ll have the perfect base to explore the Lake District.

Our motorhomes give you the freedom to park nearby, wake up to mountain views, and cook a hearty breakfast before hitting the trail.

Final Thoughts

The beauty of Catbells is not only in the view but also in their lightness, how easy it is to reach and enjoy. However, knowing where to park for Catbells can make a huge difference in how stress-free and fun your day becomes.

With the final options from Hawes to Keswick, Portinscale, and Grange, you have all kinds of traveler choices. Whether you’re visiting by car, a camper van, or one of our high-quality campers, Catbell is always worth the effort.

Start early, plan, and enjoy one of the UK’s most popular hikes.

FAQs